The names Matt Clarke, Christian Burgess and Jack Whatmough instantly spring to mind for many but there have been other defenders who have gone on to have successful careers.
However there have been other career paths for others, who have gone into coaching and technical roles.
And no doubt there’s been a few who wore royal blue who slipped your minds...
We take a look at where Pompey’s 23 central defenders over the past decade have ended up.
Here’s what we found.
21. Rasmus Nicolaisen
The Danish central defender spent a season-long loan on the south coast from FC Midtjylland. During the 2020-21 season, he made 27 appearances before returning to Denmark in the summer. Later that summer, he joined French side Toulouse and made has three appearances in the Champions League qualifiers this season. Photo: Joe Pepler
22. Clark Robertson
The 28-year-old arrived last summer from Rotherham as a replacement for Jack Whatmough. Despite a strong start to the season, he spent four months on the sideline and recently returned to the first team frame at the start of January. Photo: Robin Jones
23. Hayden Carter
The 22-year-old arrived on loan from Blackburn until the end of the season. He impressed during a loan spell at Burton last term and has continued his fine form, being one of the standout defenders in Pompey’s back line. Photo: Portsmouth FC